Odisha has become the 34th state to join the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana scheme, much to the appreciation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He criticized the previous BJD government for not adopting the scheme, which aims to provide affordable and high-quality healthcare to all citizens. The new BJP-led government in Odisha has replaced the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana with the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, in line with the national health scheme. This move is expected to benefit women and senior citizens in the state.
Ayushman Bharat: Odisha Joins the Prime Minister's Health Scheme
Background
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) is a flagship program launched by the Government of India in 2018. It aims to provide affordable and high-quality healthcare to all citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic status. The scheme offers a health insurance cover of up to Rs. 5 lakhs per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.
Odisha's Inclusion
On February 28, 2023, Odisha became the 34th state to join the AB-PMJAY scheme. The decision was welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had previously criticized the previous Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government for not adopting the scheme.
The new Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government in Odisha has replaced the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana with the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, in line with the national health scheme. This move is expected to benefit over 3.84 crore people in the state, especially women and senior citizens.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Who is eligible for AB-PMJAY?
All Indian citizens who are not covered under any other government health insurance scheme are eligible for AB-PMJAY.
2. What services are covered under AB-PMJAY?
AB-PMJAY covers a wide range of medical expenses, including hospitalization, surgery, medicamentos, and diagnostics. It also covers pre- and post-hospitalization expenses.
3. How do I know if I am covered under AB-PMJAY?
You can check your eligibility by visiting the official AB-PMJAY website (www.pmjay.gov.in) or by calling the toll-free number 1800-111-112.
4. What is the difference between AB-PMJAY and the previous health scheme in Odisha?
The Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana is more comprehensive than the previous Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana. It covers a wider range of medical expenses and offers higher coverage limits.
5. How has AB-PMJAY impacted people in Odisha?
The scheme has provided access to affordable healthcare for thousands of people in Odisha who were previously unable to afford it. It has reduced their financial burden and improved their overall health outcomes.
Conclusion
Odisha's inclusion in AB-PMJAY is a significant step towards achieving the goal of universal healthcare in India. The scheme will provide much-needed support to families in the state, ensuring that they can access quality healthcare without facing financial hardship.
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